Navigating Amsterdam's extensive landscape of children's ballet schools reveals a diverse tapestry, ranging from budget-friendly introductions in local community centres to highly structured, premium academies feeding into professional pathways. For the serious young dancer, institutions like the Dutch National Ballet Academy in Oost promise intensive training, often sitting at the higher end of the pricing spectrum. Conversely, several mid-range schools provide consistent, high-quality classical instruction across Zuid and West, while providers like DanzaStudio focus on accessible options, sometimes advertising introductory toddler lessons starting around €9.95. Parents should anticipate finding options for nearly every level of commitment, from casual movement classes for preschoolers to serious pre-professional tracks for secondary students.
See our top picks
Ballet Studio van den Ende - Adelphos
This Amsterdam-Oost school maintains very small group sizes, which is ideal for building confidence in children new to ballet technique.
DanzaStudio (Various Locations)
This option offers some of the most accessible pricing structure found, particularly for introductory toddler ballet lessons advertised starting at €9.95.
Amsterdam Dance Centre
As a large centre in the city core, this venue offers many classes with drop-in availability and a high volume of scheduling options for busy families.
36 Ballet Providers in Amsterdam
This institution is closely linked to the Dutch National Ballet, offering a serious track for highly motivated older students in Amsterdam-Oost.
The National Ballet Academy in Amsterdam-Oost provides serious ballet instruction for dedicated young dancers aiming for a professional career path. While the focus leans toward advanced study, foundational technique is covered rigorously in this prestigious setting.
- Pathway to professional ballet company training
- Located in the Amsterdam-Oost area
- Audition required for main programmes
The commitment to teaching classical ballet entirely in English makes this a distinctive choice for international families in Amsterdam-Zuid.
Offering structured ballet lessons for primary and secondary ages in Amsterdam-Zuid, this school primarily teaches in English, appealing to international families. The curriculum follows established methods, ensuring clear progress for children learning classical technique.
- Classes taught entirely in the English language
- Located in the Amsterdam-Zuid area
- Trial classes likely available for new starters
The studio's location in the accessible Amsterdam-Zuid De Pijp area suggests convenience for local primary and secondary students.
This studio in Amsterdam-Zuid, specifically the De Pijp location, incorporates ballet alongside other dance forms for primary and secondary students. Parents might appreciate the flexible drop-in options sometimes available alongside term bookings for kids' classes.
- Located centrally in the popular De Pijp area
- Offers a mix of dance styles beyond just ballet
- May offer flexible payment or drop-in options
This Amsterdam-Oost school maintains an exceptionally high customer rating, implying a positive experience for parents of primary and older ballet students.
A highly regarded ballet school in Amsterdam-Oost, Ballet Studio van den Ende provides classical training for preschool through secondary aged children. The impressive rating suggests a strong, perhaps smaller, community feel where personalized attention is prioritised.
- Consistently high customer rating for the school
- Located in the Amsterdam-Oost district
- Focus is clearly on dedicated classical ballet technique
This Amsterdam-West school boasts a very high customer rating, suggesting reliable and engaging classical ballet classes for primary and secondary pupils.
The primary Zhembrovskyy school in Amsterdam-West offers ballet instruction for various ages within a studio environment. With a very high rating, this provider focuses on quality instruction for primary and older children attending after-school or weekend sessions.
- Consistently high customer rating in Amsterdam-West
- Focus is on structured ballet classes
- Studio likely combines ballet with other movement styles
Achieving a perfect 5.0 customer rating, this dedicated ballet school in Amsterdam-Noord is a strong community choice for ongoing instruction.
A local favourite in Amsterdam-Noord, Balletschool Kamperfoelie holds a perfect customer rating for its dedicated ballet classes aimed at preschool through secondary dancers. This neighbourhood school likely fosters a warm environment for consistent weekly training.
- Achieved a perfect 5.0 customer rating
- Serves the local community in Amsterdam-Noord
- Focus is purely on classical ballet technique
With a perfect 5.0 rating, this Amsterdam-Zuid school provides quality ballet instruction for older children and teens in a highly positive setting.
This ballet and dance school in Amsterdam-Zuid has earned a perfect 5.0 rating, suggesting highly satisfied parents of their primary and secondary students. The focus remains on classical ballet alongside other dance forms in this well-regarded local studio.
- Maintains a perfect 5.0 customer rating
- Located conveniently in the Amsterdam-Zuid area
- Offers both ballet and general dance classes
This provider is highly accessible due to very low pricing for toddler ballet lessons, with classes available in Amsterdam-West and beyond.
DanzaStudio specialises in creative movement and classical ballet lessons for toddlers and younger primary children across several Amsterdam locations, including Amsterdam-West. Pricing for toddler classes is notably budget-friendly, making it accessible for weekly commitment.
- Toddler lessons start at a budget price point
- Focus on kids ballet from toddler age upwards
- Multiple studio locations across Amsterdam
This is an established, locally focused ballet school in Amsterdam-West, known for consistent teaching across primary and secondary ballet levels.
Balletschool de Kattensprong in Amsterdam-West has been running for many years, offering dedicated ballet lessons for preschool, primary, and secondary students. The location near the Wachterliedplantsoen suggests a local, neighbourhood focus for regular training.
- An established ballet school in Amsterdam-West
- Offers classes for all primary and secondary levels
- Trial lessons are generally available for new students
The sheer size and central Amsterdam-Centrum location of this Dance Center offers unparalleled convenience for primary and older kids' ballet options.
The Amsterdam Dance Center, situated centrally in Amsterdam-Centrum on Marnixstraat, hosts a wide variety of dance styles including ballet for primary and secondary ages. Its extensive schedule means flexibility for after-school bookings in this busy city centre location.
- Located centrally in the Amsterdam-Centrum area
- A large centre with many concurrent dance classes
- Trial classes are often part of the enrolment process
This provider specialises in small group classes perfect for building confidence in toddlers and preschoolers learning creative movement in central Amsterdam.
Kinderdansamsterdam focuses strongly on creative movement and introductory ballet classes for toddlers, preschoolers, and early primary students near the Amsterdam-Centrum canals. Their sessions are known for being small, allowing for high engagement with the youngest dancers.
- Strong focus on classes for toddlers and preschoolers
- Small group sizes ensure personal attention
- Classes located near the Binnen Brouwersstraat area
A well-known studio in Amsterdam-Centrum, Wladimir Dance Studios provides consistent classical ballet training options for primary and secondary pupils.
Located attractively on the Lijnbaansgracht in Amsterdam-Centrum, Wladimir Dance Studios provides ballet training for a broad age range, covering preschool through secondary ages. This is a long-standing studio setting for regular weekly classes in the heart of the city.
- Studio situated along a central Amsterdam canal
- Offers structured ballet for primary and older kids
- Trial lessons are typically offered upon enquiry
Serving primary and secondary students with serious aspirations, this Amsterdam-West school has a clear focus on intensive, potentially vocational ballet training.
The European School of Ballet in Amsterdam-West aims at serious primary and secondary students looking to pursue ballet at a high level, often leading toward vocational training. This studio offers intensive training environments for dedicated young dancers.
- Strong focus on pre-professional ballet development
- Classes held in the Amsterdam-West district
- Audition process likely required for entry
This foundation offers dedicated youth ballet programmes in Amsterdam-West, with introductory pricing that makes consistent weekly training more accessible.
The Henny Jurriens Foundation in Amsterdam-West runs structured youth development programmes, featuring ballet classes for preschool through secondary aged dancers. Pricing for youth lessons starts at a reasonable level, encouraging regular participation in this respected setting.
- Youth ballet lessons start around €12.50 each
- Located in the Chasséstraat area of Amsterdam-West
- Focus on development rather than competition
This Amsterdam-Zuidoost provider has earned a perfect 5.0 rating while catering to the full spectrum of children's class ages, including toddlers and teens.
Castle of Dance, located in Amsterdam-Zuidoost, offers ballet classes for all ages from toddlers right through to secondary school students, boasting a perfect 5.0 rating. Parents can enquire about trial options for their child to experience the studio atmosphere before enrolling for a term.
- Maintains a perfect 5.0 customer rating
- Classes available for all ages from toddlers
- Situated in the Amsterdam-Zuidoost area
The instruction is based on the demanding Russian Vaganova method, suitable for children looking for a serious classical ballet foundation.
Zhembrovskyy runs ballet classes for a wide range of ages, including toddler and primary levels, across two Amsterdam locations. Their teaching is rooted in the strict Vaganova technique, appealing to families seeking rigorous classical training. The studio in Amsterdam-Zuid is one of their accessible branches for kids ballet lessons.
- Focuses on the traditional Vaganova technique method
- Locations in both Amsterdam-Zuid and Amsterdam-West
- Offers classes spanning toddlers through adults
Held at the cultural venue Tolhuistuin, these classes mix ballet foundations with creative movement, ideal for younger children in Amsterdam-Noord.
This school provides creative ballet and movement classes for preschool and primary children situated at the Tolhuistuin in Amsterdam-Noord. The setting encourages a playful approach to dance, making it a great introduction to rhythm and grace. Sessions fit well with after-school schedules for local families.
- Classes held within the cultural centre Tolhuistuin
- Focuses on creative and playful movement for young ones
- Suits preschool and early primary ballet introduction
Excellent for introducing the youngest dancers to ballet, with specific classes for toddlers and preschoolers operating in the central area.
DanzaStudio offers ballet lessons including dedicated classes for toddlers and preschoolers alongside options for older primary and secondary children in Amsterdam-Centrum. The programme covers classical ballet and creative dance, aiming for an enjoyable start to dance for the very young. They maintain several locations across the city.
- Specialises in toddler and preschool creative movement
- Classical ballet classes available for older children
- Has multiple studio locations throughout Amsterdam
A major city centre dance hub where primary and secondary ballet students can experience classes alongside many other popular dance styles.
The Amsterdam Dance Centre in Amsterdam-Centrum hosts various dance disciplines, including ballet, for primary and secondary school students. This large centre provides flexibility with some classes allowing drop-in attendance alongside term enrolments. Their programme includes classical ballet training as part of a broader dance offering.
- Large central studio offering diverse dance styles
- Drop-in attendance is possible for some classes
- Provides ballet training for primary and older kids
This Amsterdam-Oost provider offers an enjoyable, lower-pressure introduction to ballet and movement specifically designed for preschool and primary kids.
De kids van Amsterdam offers fun, movement-based classes, including ballet for preschool and primary children, located in Amsterdam-Oost. The focus is clearly on enjoyment and imaginative play rather than rigorous examination training for these younger age groups. A trial class is possible for children exploring different dance activities.
- Concentrates on fun and movement for young children
- Classes are available for preschool through primary ages
- Located in the Amsterdam-Oost district
Directly associated with the National Opera & Ballet, this option provides unique educational experiences and workshops tied to professional productions in the city centre.
The National Opera & Ballet offers various engagement opportunities, including specific programmes for children and families near the Amstel in Amsterdam-Centrum. While not always running weekly classes, their education department facilitates workshops and events linked to professional ballet productions. This provides exposure to high-level ballet artistry for all ages.
- Programme linked directly to the National Opera & Ballet
- Focuses on workshops and family engagement days
- Central Amsterdam location by the Amstel river
A major venue in Amsterdam-West housing various ballet providers, offering a professional studio environment for primary and secondary dancers.
Chassé Dance Studios in Amsterdam-West houses several dance schools, including those offering ballet for preschoolers and older children in dedicated spaces. The facility hosts various programmes focusing on technique and performance in a professional setting. A trial lesson can usually be arranged to sample the kids ballet classes here.
- A large facility hosting multiple dance schools
- Ballet classes available for preschoolers upwards
- Located in the accessible Amsterdam-West area
As the official academy, this location offers a dedicated, high-level pathway for serious students pursuing vocational ballet training.
The National Ballet Academy in Amsterdam Oost provides rigorous classical ballet training, attracting dedicated young dancers aiming for professional careers. Classes are structured to develop high technical skill for older primary and secondary students interested in serious classical dance.
- Part of the Amsterdam University of the Arts
- Focus is on advanced classical technique
- Admission typically requires an audition process
The Zhembrovskyy studio in Amsterdam West offers Vaganova-based ballet instruction which is less common outside of specialized conservatories.
Zhembrovskyy runs highly regarded ballet classes in Amsterdam West and Zuid, often using the Vaganova method for strong classical foundation for primary and secondary students. This studio attracts serious dancers looking for intensive, technique-driven training programs.
- Studio also has a location in Amsterdam Zuid
- Vaganova method offers a specific technical focus
- Classes can be intensive, best for committed students
The Amsterdam Zuid classes blend ballet fundamentals with general fitness in small groups, appealing to active younger children.
Little Star Fitness in Amsterdam Zuid integrates ballet elements into fun, fitness focused classes primarily for toddlers and primary aged children. The small group format ensures personal attention while introducing the foundational movement of ballet.
- Classes incorporate fitness alongside ballet movements
- Small group sizes facilitate focused attention
- Located conveniently in Amsterdam Zuid
This studio in Amsterdam Oost provides great early exposure to dance, including ballet, specifically for toddlers and preschoolers.
MOVELAB Dance Centre in Amsterdam Oost offers introductory dance classes, including ballet for toddlers and preschool kids, in a modern studio setting. These sessions are designed to be fun introductions to movement and rhythm for the very young.
- Offers toddler dance classes perfect for beginners
- Modern studio space located in Amsterdam Oost
- Trial lessons are generally available for new members
Located in Amsterdam Zuid, this school offers a welcoming approach to ballet and dance foundations for young children.
Dans-dansen in Amsterdam Zuid provides varied dance classes, including ballet foundations, for young children from toddler age through primary school. The school promotes a fun and encouraging atmosphere where children explore rhythm and movement.
- Good option for younger children in Amsterdam Zuid
- Trial lessons are offered before term sign-up
- Focus is on enjoyment and foundational skills
The Amsterdam Noord studio uniquely combines ballet training with rhythmic gymnastics, aiding overall flexibility and strength for all attending age groups.
Located in Amsterdam Noord, this studio offers ballet classes that complement rhythmic gymnastics training, covering all age groups from toddlers to teens. The integrated approach builds strength and flexibility beneficial for classical ballet technique.
- Offers ballet integrated with rhythmic gymnastics training
- Classes available for a wide spectrum of young ages
- Situated in the Amsterdam Noord area
This dedicated pre-academy program provides a structured route for students wishing to progress into the full-time National Ballet Academy.
The Pre-NBA program offers serious ballet training for ambitious children in Amsterdam-Oost, forming a clear pathway toward professional dance education. These classes are designed to build a strong classical foundation for young dancers aspiring to join the National Ballet Academy.
- Pathway for future NBA auditions is the main goal
- Classes are linked to the renowned Dutch National Ballet
- Focus is on rigorous classical ballet technique
The teaching philosophy centres on 'dansplezier' or dance enjoyment, making it appealing for younger primary children exploring movement in the centre of Amsterdam.
Ballet met Mieke Roetman promises pure dance enjoyment for children, focusing on movement and fun rather than strict exams, perfect for primary aged kids in the Amsterdam-Centrum area. This provides a less pressured introduction to classical ballet technique for beginners.
- Emphasis is clearly placed on enjoying the dance process
- Classes are held centrally in Amsterdam for easy access
- Good choice for non-exam focused introductory ballet
The class is clearly defined for the youngest audience, offering ballet lessons for toddlers and preschoolers in the accessible Amsterdam-Zuid area.
WOW Family Center in Amsterdam-Zuid runs specific ballet classes explicitly aimed at toddlers and preschoolers aged 2.5 to 5 years old, providing a gentle start. Located within a broader family center, this offers a convenient multi-activity hub for local parents.
- Specific class times designed only for ages 2.5 to 5 years
- Part of a larger family center in the Rivierenbuurt
- This provider has achieved a perfect customer rating score
This academy merges classical ballet technique with contemporary work, offering a modern dance focus for primary and secondary children in Amsterdam Nieuw-West.
ISH Dance Collective in Amsterdam Nieuw-West provides an academy structure that includes ballet training alongside contemporary styles for older primary and secondary students. While focusing on cross-genre work, a solid ballet base is offered for developing dancers.
- Focus blends classical ballet with modern dance styles
- Located in the Amsterdam Nieuw-West section
- Academy setting suits older primary and secondary ages
This venue offers unique educational experiences connected to the main National Opera and Ballet company, often including introductory ballet exposure for toddlers and older children.
The National Opera & Ballet in Amsterdam-Centrum hosts family-focused educational activities, often including introductory sessions related to ballet and the performing arts for all ages. While not a daily school, these programmes provide exposure to a professional setting for young children.
- Activities are connected to the prestigious National Opera Ballet
- Focus often leans towards introductory workshops or shows
- Located in the heart of Amsterdam-Centrum
This institution represents the highest level of vocational training, serving as the primary feeder for the professional Dutch National Ballet Academy for older secondary students.
The Academy of Theatre and Dance (ATD) is a higher education institute that includes the National Ballet Academy, providing very advanced ballet training for older secondary students in Amsterdam-Centrum. While primarily post-secondary, their intensive programs scout older teens aiming for professional dance careers.
- Focuses on older teens preparing for conservatoire level study
- Part of the larger Amsterdam University of the Arts
- The gateway to the National Ballet Academy pipeline
A highly-regarded local institution in Amsterdam-Zuid, known for its dedicated ballet instruction and perfect rating across its children's classes.
This established ballet and dance school in Amsterdam-Zuid teaches children across the primary and secondary spectrum, maintaining a perfect customer rating based on user feedback. It provides consistent ballet instruction in the southern part of the city.
- A locally known school in the Amsterdam-Zuid area
- Achieved a perfect five-star customer feedback rating
- Covers classes for primary school through secondary ages
A top-rated choice in Amsterdam-West that integrates ballet within a broader drama and dance curriculum, appealing to the creative, energetic child.
Operating in Amsterdam-West, this school combines drama and dance, offering ballet introductions for toddlers, preschoolers, and primary aged children in a single program. The high customer rating suggests a very positive, engaging experience for younger participants in these combined arts classes.
- Classes merge drama and dance education together
- Catches the youngest group, including toddlers
- Located in the accessible Amsterdam-West area
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do kids ballet classes cost in Amsterdam?
The cost varies significantly depending on the school's focus. Many mid-range options are priced comparably, often in the range of €12.50 per lesson for youth classes. However, premium schools associated with vocational training may charge substantially more, and some budget-friendly introductory classes have been advertised starting as low as €9.95.
What age can kids start ballet in Amsterdam?
The starting age is quite flexible. Many studios offer creative movement or introductory ballet sessions specifically for toddlers, beginning around age two or three. Instruction for primary school aged children is widely available, and numerous schools cater to secondary students seeking ongoing classical training.
What should I look for in a beginner ballet class?
For a child starting out, look for classes that emphasise 'dansplezier' or enjoyment, perhaps those with smaller group sizes to ensure individual attention. A good beginner class will focus on basic musicality and posture without demanding strict adherence to advanced terminology right away.
Can my child try a ballet class before committing?
Yes, many providers understand the need for a trial run. A significant number of studios across areas like Zuid, West, and Centrum explicitly list that a trial lesson is available before enrolling for a full term or block.
Where in Amsterdam can I find kids ballet classes?
Options are spread throughout the city, though Amsterdam Zuid and West appear to have the highest concentration of mid-range studios catering to primary and secondary levels. Central locations like Centrum also offer numerous choices, often near major cultural institutions.
Do any studios offer training pathways towards professional dancing?
Several academies are specifically geared towards vocational training, often marketed as 'Pre-Professional' or linked closely to larger national ballet bodies. These tend to serve older primary and secondary students who are dedicated to the classical syllabus.
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